Mats Hummels could be involved in a tug-of-war between Manchester United and Arsenal (Picture: AP)

Arsenal are set to make a late challenge for Manchester United target Mats Hummels, despite the defender having been named Borussia Dortmund’s captain for the new season.

Both clubs have been linked with the German over the course of the summer, but United are believed to have diverted their attention to Dutch international Daley Blind in recent days.

However, Hummels could still make his way to the Premier League if Arsenal firm up their interest in the wake of Thomas Vermaelen’s sale to Barcelona over the weekend.

Dortmund are said to be demanding in excess of £25m for World Cup winner Hummels, according to the Daily Mail, with both United and Arsenal pursuing a centre-back ahead of the coming season.

Louis van Gaal could yet revive his interest in Hummels, however with Blind – a player he knows from the international scene – available for around £17m, he could opt for the Dutchman to bolster his back-line.